Flood barriers installed to protect temples in Ayutthaya

Thailand’s Fine Arts Department has installed flood barriers along the Chao Phraya River, to protect two ancient temples in the Ayutthaya historical park from rising water levels which are threatening to overflow the riverbanks.

Fine Arts Department Director-General Phanombut Chantarachot said yesterday (Wednesday) that, although the historical park is still safe from flooding, the department is closely monitoring the water level in the Chao Phraya River and has taken the precautionary step of installing flood barriers at two ancient temples, Chaiwatthanaram and Thammaram, which are located in low-lying areas and are at risk of being flooded by overflows.

The water level is now 70cm and 80cm below the top of the banks at Chaiwatthanaram and Thammaram temples respectively, he said, adding that the installation of temporary flood barriers is due to be completed today.

He said that…